India’s Minister of State Embraces Traditional Ava Ceremony

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA — 16 October 2026 – India’s Minister of External Affairs & Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita has expressed heartfelt gratitude over the traditional Ava Ceremony that welcomed him and his delegation to Samoa this morning.

This is the first state visit of an Indian Government Minister to Samoa after 56 years of diplomatic relationships.

“From the bottom of my heart, I and my delegation thank the great land, the great country of Samoa, for the warm hospitality and respect accorded to us. We consider it to be love and respect for my country, India,” he said.

Minister Shri Pabitra Margherita said he is honoured and a privilege to be here and experience the Samoan culture.

India’s Minister of External Affairs & Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita is greeted by Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt on behalf of the people of Samoa welcomed the Minister and his delegation.

He believed the visit was long overdue.

“We welcome you after 56 years of our diplomatic relationship. It has been a long time, and we have been waiting for this moment for you to come home,” the Prime Minister said.

He described the visit as a significant one where the existing relationship can be strengthened.

India’s Minister of External Affairs & Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita & delegation witnessing Samoan culture during the Ava Ceremony at the Samoa Tourism Authority Fale.

Bilateral Talks
Minister Margherita visit to Samoa is part of a wider Pacific tour that also includes the Cook Islands and Nauru.

While in Samoa, he will conduct bilateral talks with the Samoan Government on matters of mutual interest.

One such matter is the health sector where India and Samoa have an agreement where Samoan patients are sent for medical treatment in India and Samoa has an interest in specialized scholarships in education, information technology, scientific research and pharmaceutical products.

The Minister is also meeting the Indian community in Samoa tomorrow before departing Samoa in the afternoon.

Indias’ Minister of External Affairs & Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita & delegation with the Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers and Samoa Tourism Staff after the welcoming traditional Ava Ceremony.